Freedom, Joy and Service

The Lectionary of the Roman Catholic Church presents texts of joy and freedom today as the Celebration of the Nativity of Jesus approaches. The passage from the Song of Songs pictures the movement of lovers toward each other as they are overwhelmed by sights and sounds of marriage preparation in the joy of spring and new life. The pregnancy of Elizabeth is a time of joy for her and freedom from the social burden of being barren. Her young relative Mary, moves quickly in the joy of service of God through the "Yes" which has resulted in a miraculous pregnancy for her, too. The action of service for others is truly an inspired and inspiring act when the appropriate place of the server would appear to be as recipient rather than giver. The cliche that "it is in giving that we receive" is proved true in many ways at this time of year. Joy to the World and give give give!.